Essential fatty acids means we
must have EFAs in our system to be healthy since our bodies cannot produce it. We need to get our EFAs from food or supplements.
Most side effects are from not having any or enough EFAs in our bodies.
Here are some of the symptoms from
http://www.biovita.fi/english/terveyssivut/essentialfattyacids.html
Signs and symptoms of EFA deficiency
1. Skin problems: dry, eczema, dandruff, poor wound healing, sweating, loss of pigment, weak blood vessels/bruising, rough skin on upper arms and thighs. Cold peripheries.
2.Organs/glands: kidneys enlarge, kidney failure, blood in the urine, fatty liver degeneration, wasting of salivary and tear glands, pancreas shrinks, subfertility.
3.High cholesterol and impaired glucose metabolism.
4. Obesity.
5.Hormone imbalances and PMS. Cystic breast disease.
6.Allergies (atopic eczema, asthma)
7. Learning disabilities, ADHD, Depression and Behavioural disturbances. Higher risk for psychotic illnesses.